Dances We Dance: Harmonic Dissonance

About the Performance:
Dances We Dance Performing Ensemble presents Harmonic Dissonance, an evening of live music and dance inspired by the revolutionary spirit of modern dance pioneer Isadora Duncan and the emotional depth of composer Alexander Scriabin. Joined by pianist Nathaniel LaNasa, guest artists Rae Ballard and Clarence Brooks, and the Sokolow Theatre/Dance Ensemble, the program reimagines Duncan’s Scriabin Études through newly created solos, duets, and ensemble works choreographed by Artistic Director Francesca Todesco and company member Rosy Gentle.

Blending contemporary choreography with live piano performance, Harmonic Dissonance explores themes of grief, resilience, unity, and conflict, reflecting both the expressive intensity of Scriabin’s music and Duncan’s visionary movement language. Rooted in emotional honesty and physical freedom, the evening brings together artists from different generations and traditions in a shared exploration of human connection, transformation, and the enduring power of dance and music.

Cast & Creative Team
Artistic Director/Choreographer: Francesca Todesco
Choreographer/Company Member: Rosy Gentle
Company Members: Kathleen Caragine, Colleen Edwards
Guest Company: Sokolow Theatre/Dance Ensemble
Guest Artist: Rae Ballard
Guest Artist: Clarence Brooks
Pianist: Nathaniel LaNasa

About the Ensemble:
Dances We Dance is a New York–based contemporary dance company founded in 2020 by Artistic Director Francesca Todesco. Rooted in the legacies of Isadora Duncan, Doris Humphrey, and Anna Sokolow, the company bridges historical modern dance with contemporary creation through performance, education, and international collaboration. Dances We Dance presents original works alongside reconstructions and reinterpretations of early modern dance repertory, fostering dialogue between generations of artists. The company has performed in New York, London, Paris, Greece, including appearances at the Battery Dance Festival, and is dedicated to expressive, human-centered movement grounded in artistic freedom and emotional truth.

About the CWP Evolution Festival
The fifth annual CWP EVOLUTION FESTIVAL presents original works of theater, dance, music, comedy, and interdisciplinary performance by NYC-based artists at venues across Manhattan in June and September 2026. Participants receive free performance & rehearsal space, marketing & technical support, a guaranteed artist fee, performance photography and archival videography, and more! Learn more about the festival and the 20+ other shows on the schedule at www.centeratwestpark.org/evolution-festival-2026